03/09/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 03/09/2024 20:07
Sacramento, CA- Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson, a member of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) and a dedicated advocate for reparations, celebrates the significant progress made this legislative session while recognizing the work still ahead to ensure justice for Black Californians. Out of 14 reparations bills introduced, seven have successfully advanced to the Governor's Desk, one has already been signed into law, and ACA 8 is set to be placed on the ballot for voters to decide.
"This legislative session has marked an important step forward in our journey toward reparations," stated Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson. "While we did not get every bill across the finish line, we are proud that the majority of our legislative package has made it to the Governor's Desk. This accomplishment reflects the unprecedented nature of this effort-a comprehensive package that, if enacted, will create lasting, generational impacts for Black Californians."
The CLBC remains focused on the progress made and is committed to continuing the fight for reparations. The coalition built this year has laid the foundation for future success, demonstrating the strong support for addressing historical injustices and building a more equitable future.
"This is just the beginning. With the historic success of our inaugural reparations bill package we know how to get this sacred work done," continued Dr. Jackson. "We will not be deterred by the bills that did not move forward this year. Instead, we are motivated to keep pushing, keep building coalitions, and keep moving forward. Our goal remains clear: to ensure that every piece of legislation in this package reflects our commitment to justice and equity for all."
Looking ahead, Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson and the CLBC remain unwavering in their dedication to advancing the remaining reparations bills and working toward comprehensive solutions that benefit all Californians.
Below are the Reparations Bill Package bills that advanced this year:
ACA 8(Wilson) - Amend the California Constitution to Prohibit Involuntary Servitude
SB 1050(Bradford) - Property takings: Restore property taken during race-based uses of eminent domain to its original owners or provide another effective remedy where appropriate, such as restitution or compensation.
AB 1815 (Weber) - Prohibit Discrimination Based on Natural and Protective Hairstyles in All Competitive Sports.
SB 1089(Smallwood-Cuevas) - Address Food Injustice: Require advance notifications to the affected community, employees, and other stakeholders, prior to the closure of a grocery store in underserved or at-risk African American communities.
AB 1986(Bryan) - Eliminate book bans in CDCR detention facilities
AB 3089 (Jones-Sawyer) - An official apology from the State of California for the marginalization and oppression of descendants of slaves.
AB 1975(Bonta) - Food As Medicine
AB 3131 (McCarty) - Career Education Financial Aid for Slavery Descendants